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Shrub Trees Being Destroyed #445655

Asked March 31, 2018, 10:41 AM EDT

Something is eating my trees. They continueto lose their foliage. 2 of my rose bushes, completely eaten to the ground. Seems every day they get worse. Help!! Thank you, Julie

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

The damage shown in your photos is from rabbits. They will eat the bottom of shrubs and plants, especially in the winter. In the future use 3’ chicken wire around each shrub/plant in the fall. While the amount of foliage taken off your shrubs looks strange it will likely not kill them. You could print them all up to that point or see if some will grow back in. Your rose can be pruned to the ground and will likely regenerate new growth in the growing season. I would suggest fencing it in until it is larger as the rabbits may continue to eat the new growth.
Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied March 31, 2018, 3:21 PM EDT

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